2026 World Cup: Bukayo Saka Proves He Is Inevitable?
July 19, 2026 ·
Bukayo Saka's hat-trick took England to third place at the 2026 World Cup, raising questions about his decision not to play in the semi-final against Argentina.
2026 World Cup: Bukayo Saka Proves He Is Inevitable?
Why this is important
England's victory over France in the race for third place in the 2026 World Cup was very meaningful, especially for Bukayo Saka who scored a hat-trick. His brilliant performance not only confirmed his status as one of the key players, but also reignited discussions about the coach's decision not to play him in the semifinal against Argentina. This shows how important Saka is to the team in the context of the 2026 World Cup and the future of English football.
Main Points
- 2026 World Cup: Bukayo Saka Proves He Is Inevitable?
- Bukayo Saka's hat-trick gave England third place at the 2026 World Cup, raising questions about his decision not to play in the semi-final against Argentina.
- World Cup 2026: Has Bukayo Saka proven he is undroppable? - BBC Sport
However, on Saturday night in Miami, Saka provided the answer in the way only he can. A superb hat-trick inspired England to a dramatic 6-4 victory over France in the third-place match, ensuring England's best World Cup finish since they lifted the trophy in 1966. Saka's performance reignited questions about why one of England's key players was left out when it mattered most.
Saka could not have been more emphatic in his response. He scored twice as England surged to 4-0 up in the first half against France, first reacting quickly after Marcus Rashford had an effort saved, then receiving Eberechi Eze's pass and coolly firing into the bottom corner. With France threatening a comeback after the break, Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot to restore England's two-goal lead.
With that hat-trick, Saka became only the fourth English player to score a hat-trick at the World Cup, after Geoff Hurst, Gary Lineker and Harry Kane. He also became the second to do so in the knockout stages, following Hurst's famous treble in the 1966 final.
In the dramatic World Cup semi-final against Argentina, Tuchel chose to field Morgan Rogers on the right wing. Initially, Rogers justified his selection by providing the assist for Anthony Gordon's opener early in the second half. The Three Lions looked on course to reach their first World Cup final in 60 years before Tuchel changed formation to a more defensive one midway through the second half.
Argentina took control, with Enzo Fernandez equalizing in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored from Lionel Messi's cross in stoppage time to complete a remarkable comeback. Saka warmed up late in the match but never took to the court, and the decision quickly became one of the hottest talking points of the tournament.
However, Tuchel insisted that the decision did not mean a loss of confidence. "He is extraordinary. Bukayo is a key player for me," said the England coach after the win over France. "He is ready to play in the World Cup. I still feel a responsibility as a coach, and with the background where he comes from, I want to be careful with Bukayo. He has started a lot of games, and it was a difficult decision for me not to play him in the semifinals."
Saka himself admitted there was frustration at not playing more, but chose not to discuss his absence after his outstanding performance against France. "Of course, I would like to play more. But now is not the time to talk about it. I tried to talk on the pitch. It happened. Let's move on."
Despite his carefully managed workload, Saka finished the tournament with three goals and three assists from just 357 minutes on the pitch — an average of one goal contribution every 59.5 minutes. Of course, one performance cannot change the outcome of the semifinals. Rogers set up Gordon's goal against Argentina and Tuchel's decision was influenced by fitness management as well as tactical preference. However, football often depends on the slimmest of margins, and Saka's performance against France is sure to call fresh attention to one of England's biggest selection decisions.
Saka came into the World Cup nursing an injury, left the tournament with a hat-trick, and, in his manager's words, remains a "key player" for England. If there was any doubt about its place in Tuchel's plans for Euro 2028, Miami provided a stark reminder of the quality England possess.
What happened next
With Saka's outstanding form, the hope is that he will be an integral part of England's squad heading into the 2026 World Cup. The coaching team may reconsider their strategy, especially ahead of important matches in the future. Apart from that, Saka will also try to maintain this positive momentum in the club competition with Arsenal in the coming season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the goal in the England vs France match?
Bukayo Saka scored a hat-trick, while Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford also scored for England.
What impact will the result of the England vs France match have on England's position in the World Cup?
A 6-4 win over France ensured England's best World Cup finish since they lifted the trophy in 1966.
When will England play next after the match against France?
The article does not mention England's next fixtures.
What is the final score of England vs France?
The final score of the match is England 6, France 4.
Which England players scored a hat-trick in the World Cup before Bukayo Saka?
Before Bukayo Saka, the English players who scored a hat-trick at the World Cup were Geoff Hurst, Gary Lineker and Harry Kane.
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